Artists Call for Entries: Rhythm and Rhyme
Gordon Goetemann, Movement Two, oil on canvas, 2009. Image courtesy of the Goetemann Gallery.
Works Inspired by Music and Lyrics
An open exhibition, juried by the Rocky Neck Cultural Center Exhibitions Committee
Exhibition Dates: Friday, May 22 – Sunday, June 28, 2026
EXTENDED Submission Deadline: Monday, April 27, 2026 at 12:00pm (EST)
Art Drop-Off: Sunday, May 17, 2026, by 5pm
The Cultural Center at Rocky Neck, 6 Wonson Street, Gloucester, MA 01930
Opening Reception: Sunday, May 24, 2026, | 4-6pm
Submissions:client.smarterentry.com/rnac
Technical Support:entry@rockyneckartcolony.org
All Other Inquiries:exhibitions@rockyneckartcolony.org
Submissions Open: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 12:00pm (EST)
Submission Deadline: Monday, April 27, 2026 at 12:00pm (EST)
Entry Fee:
Up to five submissions
$25 for RNAC members | $35 for non-members
The Call
The Rocky Neck Art Colony (RNAC) invites artists working in all media to submit work for inclusion in Rhythm and Rhyme, an open, juried exhibition presented at the Cultural Center at Rocky Neck in Gloucester, Massachusetts.
Exhibition Description
Wassily Kandinsky once wrote, “Lend your ears to music, open your eyes to painting…and stop thinking!” The structural elements of music—melody, harmony, tempo, tone, and texture—have long inspired visual artists, just as lyrics and rhythm can evoke powerful imagery and emotional resonance. From classical to hip-hop, cool jazz to honky-tonk, sound and song offer endless creative possibilities.
Rhythm and Rhyme invites artists to submit up to five works inspired by music, sound, or musical lyrics. Work in any medium is welcome. Regardless of materials or approach, submissions should clearly reflect the artist’s connection to sound or song, supported by an accompanying artist statement that articulates this relationship.
Eligibility & Requirements
Artwork must not have been exhibited at a Cape Ann venue within the past two years.
All work must be original and created by the submitting artist.
Work must be ready to display; gold frames are discouraged.
All work must be for sale.
All participating artists (or a designated proxy) are required to gallery sit.
Gallery sitting provides an opportunity to engage with visitors, encourage sales, and support RNAC.
Shifts are 2.5 hours; no prior experience is necessary.
Training and support are provided.
Sign up to gallery sit for this exhibition HERE.
Entries must be submitted via client.smarterentry.com/rnac.
Use an existing login or select “Start Here” to create a new account.
For video or other time-based work, contact exhibitions@rockyneckartcolony.org for submission instructions.
For technical assistance, contact entry@rockyneckartcolony.org as soon as issues arise—please don’t wait.
Image Requirements for Online Submission
Images must be high-quality JPG or PNG files
Resolution: 300 dpi, approximately 1–3 MB per image
File naming format: LastName, FirstInitial_Title.jpg
Example: Smith, J._Sunset.jpg
Artwork Size & Installation
Artists submitting 2D work wider than 60 inches or installation work requiring substantial space should contact the Exhibitions Committee in advance to confirm accommodation.
Insurance
The Rocky Neck Art Colony, Inc. and its galleries (RNACG) do not carry property insurance for exhibited artwork and assume no responsibility for loss, damage, or theft. Artists are encouraged to secure their own insurance coverage.
Sales & Commissions
All artwork must be for sale.
Commission structure:
RNAC Members: 75% to artist
Non-Members: 60% to artist
To receive the member commission rate, artists must be active RNAC members at the time of entry.
To join or renew, click HERE.
To confirm membership status, email director@rockyneckartcolony.org.
All sold work remains on view for the duration of the exhibition.
Buyers will be instructed to pick up purchased work at the conclusion of the exhibition.
If alternate arrangements are needed, artists are responsible for coordinating delivery directly with the buyer. RNAC does not assume delivery costs.
Promotion
RNAC will promote the exhibition through its weekly e-newsletter, social media, and targeted press outreach.
Artists are encouraged to promote the exhibition through their own social media channels and networks.
About the Rocky Neck Art Colony
The Rocky Neck Art Colony is one of the oldest continuously operating art colonies in the United States and has drawn artists to its picturesque waterfront for more than 150 years. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, RNAC is dedicated to nurturing excellence in the arts and celebrating the rich artistic history and culture of Rocky Neck in Gloucester, Massachusetts.